Aromatherapy for Pregnancy continued...

Essential Oil Safety

Before using any essential oil you should always check to see if it has any contraindications and how this will affect you. Some essential oils can not be used in pregnancy, some can only be used by a qualified Aromatherapist and some need to be used in specific ways to avoid doing harm to yourself and others.

As a general rule the following apply to the use of essential oils:

Keep out of reach of children.

Do not ingest.

Only use in pregnancy when stated.

Always dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin or in a bath.

Do not use internally.

Do not apply to mucous membranes.

Adhere to safety guidelines for each Essential Oils specific use.

Store in a cool dark place with the lid securely on to avoid having your Oils spoilt through oxidization and evaporation.

Most importantly – if in doubt seek professional advice!

The 6 safe Essential Oils for use in pregnancy

This list of essential oils is not exclusive, there are certainly other oils which can be used throughout pregnancy, however, due to the lack of research available in this area, these oils are considered to be ‘no harm oils’ they carry little to no contraindications and can very successfully treat the variety of conditions presented throughout pregnancy. If you wish to use other oils please consult a qualified Aromatherapist who will take into account your individual circumstances and health history and will help you to make an informed decision.

True Lavender - Lavender can be used to ease stress and tension, provide relief from muscular pain (sciatica etc), relax the body and mind to induce sleep, it can be used a an antidepressant and to dispel anxiety, also as a treatment for headaches and migraines.

Australian Sandalwood - Sandalwood is very effective in reducing swelling from fluid retention, and in treating urinary tract infections and cystitis. It has sedating properties making it very useful for relaxing the nervous system, promoting sleep, easing headaches and nervous tension.

Mandarin - Mandarin can be a very important oil for most pregnant women; it helps to treat fluid retention, through the the digestive system relieving flatulence and is highly effective in the prevention of stretch marks.

It is calming and soothing helping to relieve restlessness and is considered to be a happy oil bringing cheer to those who use it.

Sweet Orange is considered to be refreshing, cheerful and quite sensual in nature. It helps to brings joy to the home and creates a warm environment full of laughter and optimism. It can be used to help reduce fears of the unknown and dispel self-doubt!

Patchouli is effective in alleviating depression, anxiety, and stress helping those with over-active minds to quiet the mind chatter and achieve calm and quiet.

Bergamot - Bergamot helps to boost the immune system, aids the digestive system and uplift the mind. It is sedating yet uplifting, which helps to treat depression. Bergamot provides self confidence to those who lack it and is very helpful in treating grief.

This oil helps to evoke joy and refresh the spirit, sweet and warm, Bergamot can help to open the heart and allow love to flow.

Caution: this oil is phototoxic do not expose yourself to sun including sun beds for 12 hours after use on the skin.